Life of Guangzhou - GZ to hold Across Pearl River Swim

Citizens swam in the Pearl River last summer.

After the successful Across Pearl River Swim last year, Guangzhou Government is now planning to repeat the event this year. Before the event, Guangzhou Mayor Mr. Zhang inspected the water quality of the Pearl River.

According to weekly tests of the Pearl River, water quality is much better in comparison to the same period last year. During the inspection, Mr. Zhang said that, the government had made the purity of the Pearl River a priority in its work, and that they aimed at making the water clear and eliminating the polluted smell within 3 years. So far, the water quality of the Pearl River has been greatly improved. However, it is not yet good enough for daily swimming. More efforts must be made to clean-up the river.

As for the Across Pearl River Swim, Mr. Zhang said that, the event is for highlighting environmental protection and calling for more support from society to care for the Pearl River, rather than just swimming.

The reporter was told that the swim this year will be held soon. Detailed plans are awaiting approval.

(By Helena Zhang and Alan Devey)